Lodi City Council Meeting - December 3, 2025
Lodi City Council Meeting
December 3, 2025 – Comprehensive Agenda Review
Carnegie Forum, 305 West Pine Street, Lodi | Closed Session: 6:15 p.m. | Regular Session: 7:00 p.m.
📋 Meeting Overview
- Single Presentation: Mayor's Community Service Awards (2 recipients)
- Twelve Consent Calendar Items: Routine business totaling approximately $2.1 million in public works contracts
- Public Hearings: None scheduled for this meeting
- Regular Calendar Items: None scheduled for this meeting
- Reorganization: Selection of new Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore
📊 Executive Summary
The December 3, 2025 Lodi City Council meeting features a significant agenda centered on municipal operations, infrastructure maintenance, and governance reorganization. Key business includes recognition of two distinguished community service award recipients, approval of routine municipal operations, substantial public works expenditures totaling approximately $2.1 million, and the annual reorganization to establish new leadership roles. Major capital investments include a $1.75 million transit bus purchase and facility upgrades. The agenda reflects the City's commitment to community engagement, infrastructure maintenance, and fiscal stewardship.
🎖️ Presentations
B.1 – Mayor's Community Service Awards
Purpose: The Mayor will present the 2025 Mayor's Community Service Award to two honorees for their dedication to the Lodi community.
Scott Hamilton
Scott Hamilton is a dedicated community leader and appointed member of the Site Plan & Architectural Review Committee (SPARC), serving a four-year term since October 2023. He reviews site plans and architectural proposals to ensure alignment with Lodi's zoning ordinances and design standards.
Mr. Hamilton is currently working with community partners to restore and repurpose the historic Lodi Firehouse and City Hall located at 114 N. Main Street. The project seeks to revitalize the building as a combined museum and union hall while preserving its original turn-of-the-century architectural character.
The Lodi Lions Club
The Lodi Lions Club has been active in Lodi since 1940 as part of Lions International. The organization adopted Emerson Park and Legion Park in the 1990s and has provided significant financial support and labor for improvements at both facilities.
Most recently, the Lions raised funds beginning in 2023 to restore Emerson Park, installing a new two-bay swing area with inclusive therapeutic swings for young children with special needs, concrete curbing, safety play surfacing, and a covered picnic table with concrete pad. Past members Micke Locke and Ken Heffel funded the roofing labor, while the Lions funded materials for a new standing seam metal roofing package.
✅ Consent Calendar Items (12 Items)
All matters on the consent calendar are considered routine and will be acted upon by one motion unless a member of the public requests separate discussion.
C.1 – Approve Minutes (June 4, 2025 Regular Meeting)
Purpose: Approve the minutes from the June 4, 2025 Regular Meeting as prepared by the City Clerk.
Background: The attached minutes document the council's actions including presentation of recognition to Mohr-Fry Ranches for being awarded "2025 Vineyard of the Year," adoption of the FY 2025/26 budget, and approval of the Short Range Transit Plan Update.
C.2 – Public Benefit Funds Allocation – Wrestling Booster Club of Tokay High ($5,000)
Purpose: Adopt a resolution approving the allocation of $5,000 from District 5 Non-Profit Funds to the Wrestling Booster Club of Tokay High.
Background: On June 4, 2025, the City Council voted to add $100,000 to the City Council budget as part of the FY 2025-26 budget, distributed evenly among five Council Members ($20,000 each) to support non-profits benefitting the Lodi community. On July 2, 2025, Council adopted Resolution No. 2025-120 approving the Non-Profit Fund Policy establishing guidelines for fund allocation.
The Wrestling Booster Club of Tokay High submitted a proposal letter requesting support for the Tokay Tigers Wrestling Program. The funds will help cover essential expenses including athlete meals, lodging, and travel for tournaments throughout the season. The program has built a legacy of winning tradition and multiple League Championships. Council Member Hothi reviewed and approved this allocation from District 5 funds.
Fiscal Impact: $5,000 from City Council Non-Profit Fund District 5.
C.3 – Lodi Electric Utility Reserve Policy Review
Purpose: Adopt a resolution reviewing and maintaining the current Lodi Electric Utility (LEU) Reserve Policy as required every three years.
Background: The LEU Reserve Policy requires assessment every three years, with the last review completed November 2022. In 2022, Council authorized removal of the Capital Reserve component and instead authorized purchase of a spare substation transformer to mitigate risks from supply chain challenges and material price escalation.
Current Reserve Policy Formula
| Fund Designation | Basis | FY 2025/26 Target |
|---|---|---|
| Operating Reserve | 90 days cash on hand | $22,906,600 |
| NCPA General Operating Reserve | Identified by NCPA | $6,813,000 |
| Total Target | $29,719,600 |
Financial Position: LEU currently holds approximately $41 million in total cash reserves, meeting 138 percent of the current reserve policy target. Financial reserves are strong and stable with no projected base rate increases anticipated until 2030. Rating agencies S&P and Moody's issued ratings of A and A2 respectively with stable outlooks—upper medium investment grade levels positioning LEU well for anticipated borrowing associated with the 230 kV Project.
The Risk Oversight Committee (ROC) recommended maintaining the current formula at its November 4, 2025 meeting.
C.4 – Kone Inc. Citywide Elevator Services Amendment ($40,000)
Purpose: Authorize the Interim City Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to the Professional Services Agreement with Kone Inc. for citywide elevator services in the amount of $40,000.
Background: The Public Works Facilities Division has an agreement with Kone Inc. for monitoring and maintaining all city-owned elevators. The original term ran July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025, with two optional one-year extensions. Extension 1 was executed extending the term through June 30, 2026.
The original agreement was for $60,000 with approximately $3,200 remaining—insufficient for anticipated needs. Amendment No. 1 increases the contract by $40,000 for a total not-to-exceed amount of $100,000. Additional funding will cover monitoring and maintenance for the remainder of the fiscal year plus coordination needed for a planned elevator camera installation project at the transit parking structure.
The contract covers 11 elevators at multiple city facilities including City Hall, Carnegie Forum, Public Safety Building, Hutchins Street Square, and the Pine Street Parking Structure.
C.5 – Block Wall Repair Program Change Orders ($42,625) and Fund Appropriation ($36,000)
Purpose: Authorize additional change orders to the 2025-27 Block Wall Repair Program not-to-exceed $42,625 and appropriate funds of $36,000.
Background: City block walls are occasionally damaged by vehicle accidents or vandalism. The Fence Repair Program was implemented in 2014 to retain a contractor on an as-needed basis for quick response. On April 16, 2025, Council adopted Resolution 2025-052 authorizing contract award and change orders not-to-exceed $50,000. John Wait Masonry, Inc. of Lodi was awarded the contract for $42,625 with authorized change order authority of $7,375.
Work Orders Issued Due to Unforeseen Accidents
Funding: Measure K Fund (30399000.77020).
C.6 – Animal Shelter Construction Management Amendment ($75,000)
Purpose: Authorize Amendment No. 1 to the Professional Services Agreement with Bickford Ventures Inc. (dba Division 01 Construction Management Services of Lodi) for construction management services for the City of Lodi Animal Shelter Project in the amount of $75,000.
Background: On June 5, 2024, City Council approved a Professional Services Agreement with Bickford Ventures Inc. for construction management and inspection services for the Animal Services Facility in the amount of $227,226. The scope includes project management services, quality assurance testing, special inspection, and related laboratory services.
Various unforeseen circumstances have impacted construction timelines, causing the project to extend beyond the original scope. Additional material testing services have been required. Bickford Ventures has exhausted the original budget with work still remaining.
Amendment No. 1 adds $75,000 for a total amount of $302,126, which remains below the project's contingency amount. Funding was included in the project contingency.
C.7 – Purchase of Two CNG Transit Buses ($1,750,000)
Purpose: Authorize the purchase of two 35-foot compressed natural gas (CNG), low-floor buses from Gillig, LLC of Livermore not-to-exceed $1,750,000, utilizing Washington State Department of Enterprise Services Cooperative Purchasing Agreement (Master Contract No. 06719), appropriate additional funds of $400,000, and authorize the Interim City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
Background: The City operates and maintains 24 transit vehicles for GrapeLine fixed route service, VineLine ADA/Paratransit service, and Dial-A-Ride service. Five 2018 Glaval Titan II cutaway buses (26-foot) are approaching their end of useful life (8 years per FTA guidelines) in 2025. These aging vehicles frequently break down causing service disruptions, costly repairs, and increased maintenance staff time.
The City was awarded $1,147,500 in FFY 22 and FFY 23 Section 5307 funds with a $202,500 local match (TDA funds) for a total of $1,350,000. On October 30, 2025, Gillig provided a final quote of $1,571,576—higher than anticipated due to inflation and tariffs. Staff recommends a total not-to-exceed amount of $1,750,000 to cover increased costs and contingency (18-20 month build time).
Funding Breakdown
The new buses will be manufactured by Gillig LLC in Livermore, CA with Cummins engines and ADA-compliant ramps. Per Lodi Municipal Code Section 3.20.045, the bidding process may be waived when utilizing contracts awarded by other public agencies.
C.8 – PG&E Easement at White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility ($19,500)
Purpose: Authorize the Interim City Manager to accept payment of $19,500 from, and dedicate easement to, Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) at White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility Property.
Background: The City owns approximately 1,090 acres associated with the White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility, with the majority leased for farmland utilizing treated wastewater. PG&E has approached the City to upgrade a series of power poles between two of the City's fields in the southeast portion of the property to increase service reliability.
The current easement does not meet PG&E's current standards, so they requested an increase from 8-foot wide to 40-foot wide (32 feet of new easement). PG&E provided a Valuation Estimate and proposed compensation of $19,500 based on the additional easement width. Staff reviewed the estimate and potential impacts to farmable land, finding the proposed compensation fair with minimal impacts.
Revenue: Wastewater Revenue - 53000000.55024 - $19,500
C.9 – Citywide Window and Glass Repair Contract ($72,700)
Purpose: Authorize the Interim City Manager to award contract for Citywide Window and Glass Repair and Replacement to Mountain Valley Glass, Inc. of Valley Springs for $72,700 and execute change orders not-to-exceed $20,000.
Background: City windows and glass are occasionally in need of replacement due to vandalism, leaks, or age. This on-call contract allows quick response to repair needs. Staff requested bids utilizing the City's Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act purchasing policy (for projects under $220,000).
One bid was received from Mountain Valley Glass, Inc. of Valley Springs for $72,700. The contract term runs from execution through June 30, 2027. Facilities covered include City Hall, Carnegie, Hutchins Street Square, various office buildings, the library, and public safety buildings.
Bid Schedule
| Item | Qty | Unit | Unit Price | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Person Crew (Hourly Rate) | 200 | HR | $340.00 | $68,000 |
| 2-Person Crew after-hours (Hourly Rate) | 10 | HR | $470.00 | $4,700 |
| Total | $72,700 |
C.10 – Accept Traffic Signal Improvements at Victor Road (SR 12) and Guild Avenue
Purpose: Accept improvements under contract for Traffic Signal and Lighting Project at Victor Road (SR 12) and Guild Avenue.
Background: The project has been completed by St. Francis Electric, LLC of San Leandro. Improvements include traffic signal installation, crosswalks with ADA ramps and accessible push buttons, and signal ahead signs with flashing beacons. Completed improvements demonstrate enhanced safety and accessibility at this critical intersection.
C.11 – Set Public Hearing for 2025 California Building Codes Adoption
Purpose: Set a Public Hearing for December 17, 2025 to consider adoption of the 2025 California Building Code, California Existing Building Code, Mechanical Code, Electrical Code, Plumbing Code, Residential Code, Green Building Standard Code, and Fire Code.
Background: Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 18938, the California Building Standards Commission selected January 1, 2026 as the effective date for the 2025 California building codes. Every three years, Building/Construction and Fire Codes are amended by the State to include provisions of the most recent version.
If codes with amendments are not adopted locally by January 1, 2026, cities must follow State codes only. The need for local ordinances is to adopt specific appendices and administration provisions not adopted by the State, including:
- Administration Chapter I, Division II amended to have the City Council sit as the board of appeals for alternate materials and construction types instead of a separate appointed board
- Appendix J adopted to provide clear direction for construction design guidelines regarding grading, excavation, and earthwork
Major changes in this code cycle are in the California Building Code, California Energy Code, and California Green Building Standard Code.
C.12 – Set Public Hearing for Animal Code Municipal Code Amendments
Purpose: Set a Public Hearing for December 17, 2025 to consider amending Lodi Municipal Code regarding animal-related provisions.
Background: The Lodi Animal Services Division reviewed LMC regulations and worked with the City Attorney's office to propose amendments clarifying definitions, authority, and procedures. The proposed amendments would also establish a new Trap, Neuter, and Return (TNR) program to address the growing feral cat population.
Key Proposed Changes by Chapter
| Chapter | Proposed Changes |
|---|---|
| Chapter 1.10 | Define "enforcement officer" and clarify LMC enforcement authority |
| Chapter 6.08 | Add definitions, prohibit feeding feral cats, clarify violations as infractions (not misdemeanors) |
| Chapters 6.04 & 6.12 | Clarify limits for permissible breeding and sales of dogs/cats; add microchipping requirement for impounded animals with current owner information; state violations as infractions |
| Chapter 6.14 | Establish TNR program; state violations as infractions |
| Chapter 6.15 | Clarify definitions of "potentially dangerous dog" vs. "vicious dog"; add reference to "permitted poultry" for domestic animal considerations |
📢 Public Hearings
There are no Public Hearing items scheduled for this meeting.
📋 Regular Calendar Items
There are no Regular Calendar items scheduled for this meeting.
🔄 Reorganization
I.1 – Council Reorganization: Selection of Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore
Purpose: Following presentation to the outgoing Mayor, adopt resolutions selecting a Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore to serve the Lodi City Council for the next year's term.
Background: Pursuant to Lodi Municipal Code Section 2.04.070, the City Council must reorganize annually by selecting a Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore.
Reorganization Process
- Presentation to former Mayor Bregman by Interim City Manager Lindsay
- Presentation to Mayor Nakanishi by Councilmember Bregman
- Presentation to City Council Members by Mayor Nakanishi
- City Clerk conducts the vote for the office of Mayor
- Following Mayor selection, City Clerk hands the gavel to the newly-selected Mayor
- New Mayor conducts the vote for the office of Mayor Pro Tempore
- Newly-selected Mayor adjourns the meeting
Current Council Composition
- Mayor Alan Nakanishi
- Mayor Pro Tempore Ramon Yepez
- Councilmember Cameron Bregman
- Councilmember Lisa Craig-Hensley
- Councilmember Mikey Hothi